DHEA: DIHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE

 

What is DHEA; a hormone easily available in many countries over the counter and in many countries in the nutritional section of tablets? In many countries women use it freely as a heath product often without proper advice. They think it helps their wellbeing, muscle strength, lose weight, cognition, boost immunity and sexual function. Some also feel benefitted from hot flushes and depression. It    is available as tablets, topical cream, powder, capsules, and gel. The studies on this subject are confusing. Only one study has suggested in a small number of women that helped with hot flushes, sexual dysfunction. Off course it helps with bone density. It has a few side effects such as, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, abnormal bleeding, acne, may be loss of hair and hairiness (Hirsutism).They can also interact with some important drugs such as blood thinners, anticonvulsants and drugs used for heart or liver disease. One situation it is useful in, is vaginal atrophy due to menopause. It has no systemic effect hence can be useful in women after treatment for breast cancer. It is helpful in sexual function due to prevention of pain, it is not believed that it helps in improving libido in any other way. Using DHEA women, also risk getting problems with, Thyroid, HDL, PCOD, and Clotting problems. I have come across many menopausal women taking DHEAS to prevent aging effects, wellbeing and feel better sexually; my suggestion to them is not to take this without proper advice, it does nothing for aging, may be a bit for menopausal symptoms and surely helps with vaginal atrophy and bone density.